Is it illegal to play Rated M games?
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It is not illegal for minors to play Rated M games, but the Video Recordings Act 1984 makes it illegal to supply a PEGI 12, 16, or 18 rated game to a person under those ages. The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) ratings are not legally binding on consumers or retailers, but most retailers choose to adhere to them as a guideline for selling Mature (M) rated games to minors.
Understanding Rated M Games
Rated M games are designed for players 17 and older, and they may contain content such as intense violence, blood and gore, sexual content, and strong language. The ESRB rating system is a voluntary guidelines for the video game industry, and it helps consumers make informed decisions about the games they purchase.
FAQs
Q1: Can a 14-year-old play M games?
A 14-year-old can play M-rated games if their parents or guardians allow it, but retailers may not sell M-rated games to them due to the ESRB guidelines.
Q2: Can a 16-year-old buy M-rated games?
According to the ESRB, M-rated games are meant for players 17 and older, but some retailers may allow 16-year-olds to purchase them with parental consent.
Q3: Can you buy a rated M game at 15?
No, most retailers will not sell M-rated games to 15-year-olds due to the ESRB guidelines, but they can play them if their parents or guardians allow it.
Q4: Does GameStop check ID for M-rated games?
Yes, GameStop requires customers to show proof of age when purchasing games with an ESRB rating of M (Mature).
Q5: Can a 17-year-old buy M-rated games?
Yes, according to the ESRB, M-rated games are meant for players 17 and older, so a 17-year-old can buy them.
Q6: Is it illegal to buy M-rated games for minors?
No, it is not illegal to buy M-rated games for minors, but retailers may choose not to sell them due to the ESRB guidelines.
Q7: What is the age limit for M games?
The ESRB recommends that M-rated games are suitable for players 17 and older.
Q8: Do you need ID for M-rated games?
Yes, many retailers require customers to show proof of age when purchasing M-rated games, but it may vary depending on the store’s policy.
Q9: Can a 17-year-old buy an 18-rated game?
No, according to the ESRB, AO-rated games are meant for players 18 and older, so a 17-year-old cannot buy them.
Q10: Why do parents let kids play M-rated games?
Some parents allow their children to play M-rated games because they believe they are mature enough to understand the content and not repeat it in real life.
Q11: Is M OK for 13-year-olds?
No, M-rated games are not recommended for children under 15, as they may contain content that requires a mature outlook.
Q12: Why can’t kids play rated M games?
M-rated games may contain graphic violence, language, and sexual content that is not suitable for young children.
Q13: Can a 12-year-old play GTA 5?
No, Grand Theft Auto V is an adult action game that contains gang violence, nudity, coarse language, and drug and alcohol abuse, making it unsuitable for 12-year-olds.
Q14: Are age ratings law?
No, age ratings are not legally binding, but they serve as a guideline for consumers and retailers to make informed decisions.
Q15: Does Walmart check ID for M-rated games?
Yes, Walmart has programmed its cash registers to automatically prompt associates to check the age of customers purchasing M-rated games to ensure they are 17 or older.